Levonorgestrel 1.5mg

Levonorgestrel as an Emergency Contraceptive

Emergency contraception is a suitable option for those who have had unprotected sex, or if a contraception method (e.g. condom) has failed. Levonorgestrel is a morning-after pill that is used within 72 hours after unprotected sex. It's the original emergency contraception pill that is also used when a contraceptive method, e.g. oral pill, has been taken incorrectly.

What is Levonorgestrel and how does it work?

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic version of the naturally occurring hormone progesterone which is produced by women in the ovaries. This medication works to prevent pregnancy by stopping the ovaries from releasing an egg and disallowing any sperm from fertilising an egg that may have already been released.

Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken as soon as possible after sex, e.g. 12 hours, but should be used within 3 days (72 hours) after unprotected sex.

This medication can be taken by any woman of childbearing age, including adolescents and can be used at any time in the menstrual cycle.

Emergency contraception can be used to prevent pregnancy, however, if you are already pregnant, it will not interrupt an existing pregnancy. Levonorgestrel should not be used as a regular form of birth control.

Is Levonorgestrel right for me?

If you are looking for an effective emergency contraceptive, Levonorgestrel may be right for you. However, it may not be suitable for you if you have the following:

• If you are allergic to levonorgestrel or any of the other ingredients of this medicine,
• If you suffer from severe asthma,
• If you suffer from liver disease,
• If you are pregnant or think you may already be pregnant
• If you have severe liver problems
• If you have a history of ectopic pregnancy
• If you have a history of salpingitis
• If you have not had your first period
• If you have a disease of your small bowel (such as Crohn’s disease) that inhibits the absorption of the drug.

All medications can cause potential side effects, below we have listed some potential side effects of Levonorgestrel. However, these do not always occur and are mostly mild in nature. But if you experience any prolonged or worrying side effects of Levonorgestrel, please discontinue the medication immediately and consult your doctor.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Painful periods
• Abdominal pain
• Changes to your next period
• Headache
• Tiredness

To view Levonogestrel Patient Leaflet click here.

To view PDF patient leaflet click here.